Diploma in Ecotourism and Protected Areas Management

Description of the Qualification

Travel industry experts alluded that ecotourism is the fastest growing segment of the tourism industry. Ecotourism is about preserving the natural environment and giving local people fair employment. Domestic tourism plays a special and important role in Namibian tourism industry. The management of protected areas with their fragile ecosystems and natural resources is of utmost importance. How these resources are managed and to what extent they are complemented with man-made innovations, will determine the country’s competitiveness in tourism. While tourism has tremendous potential to create jobs, it should be recognized that appropriate skills and experience are necessary to conserve and manage protected areas that are in most cases tourists’ destinations. This qualification aims to strengthen student’s passion and interests in tourism and the management of protected areas to contribute to growing and developing the tourism industry.

Admission/Entry requirements

Students will be admitted if they hold a Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary Level (NSSCO) or Namibia Senior Secondary Advanced Subsidiary (NSSAS), both or equivalent qualification(s), with a minimum of 23 points in five (5) best subjects with minimum of D in English or equivalent. Students may also enter through mature age entry. The Diploma in Ecotourism and Protected Areas Management NQF Level 5 grants admission to a Bachelor of Ecotourism and Protected Areas Management Honours or any related qualification at NQF Level 8.

Career Opportunities

This is a management level qualification for individuals who are, or wishes to be involved in meaningful contribution towards the development of responsible, human and environmentally friendly, naturally and commercially sustainable tourism. Individuals will be able to develop, plan and operate an ecotourism enterprise incorporating the principles of sustainable use, traditional knowledge and livelihoods whilst balancing these with sound environmental and business practices. Individuals can then prosper in careers such as Conservationists, Protected Area Managers, Research Assistants, Environmental Health Supervisors, Tour Guides, Ecotourism Project Managers, Environmental Campaigners/ Lobbyists, Cultural Ambassadors, Customer Care Consultants, Game rangers, Tourism Health and Safety Officers, Trainee Tour operators, Eco-destination officers, Service Agents as well as Wildlife and Parks Managers / Administrators.

Qualification Structure

Courses, Study Time, NQF Level and Credits